US marines assault Taliban-held town

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US Marines have mounted a helicopter assault to seize the Taliban-held town of Dahaneh, in southern Afghanistan. It was the first time coalition forces had entered the town, which has been under Taliban control for years.

Wednesday's strike began before dawn, with Marines entering the town and other Marine units battling militants in the surrounding mountains.

The troops were met with small-arms, mortar and grenade fire. Several suspects were captured, and about 30 kilos of opium seized.

US, NATO and Afghan troops have been trying to secure voting sites ahead of elections on August 20.